The respite wouldn’t last, with “The Amazing Race” retrieving the crown last year against such rivals as “American Idol,” “Dancing With the Stars," Project Runway,” “Top Chef” and “So You Think You Can Dance.”

This year, it beat out many of the same shows -- "Dancing With the Stars" (ABC), "Project Runway" (Lifetime), "So You Think You Can Dance" (Fox) and "Top Chef" (Bravo) -- but with "The Voice" (NBC) replacing "Idol."

The reality show’s win on Sunday is certainly a good way to kick off its 21st season, which premieres Sept. 30.

The 64th Primetime Emmy Awards are being handed out at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, and the show is being televised live on ABC.